Tesla, undoubtedly, holds the position of the most influential and significant automobile company of the 21st century thus far. It has been credited with groundbreaking innovations and products that have shaped the automotive industry and its future. However, this influence, as well as that of its autocratic leader, Elon Musk, has not come without its drawbacks.
Vox Media’s tech podcast “Land of the Giants,” renowned for exploring major brands like Amazon, Google, Netflix, Facebook/Meta, and Apple, has now turned its attention to the world of electric vehicles and Tesla. Through meticulous reporting, seasoned car journalists Tamara Warren (The Verge, the New York Times) and Patrick George (Jalopnik, The Drive) have skillfully woven together a comprehensive history of Tesla’s rise as an EV powerhouse and its impact on the car industry, government, and the global context at large.
With Tesla being one of the most covered companies and individuals in the media landscape, one may wonder why further reporting on the subject is necessary. However, delving into Tesla’s history and evaluating its present and future implications on the market and beyond has proven to be a genuinely intriguing and informative endeavor.
In its ambitious pursuit of shaping the future, Tesla, under the guidance of Elon Musk, has disrupted conventional perceptions of automobiles, transportation policies, consumer habits, and manufacturing processes. The podcast explores all these aspects, but its true strength lies in examining how this rapid transformation has affected the lives of the people involved. Undoubtedly, their lives have been significantly altered in both positive and negative ways.
Working at Tesla has been a life-altering experience for many individuals, with outcomes varying depending on their roles within the company. However, numerous accounts reveal that the lack of work-life balance and protective structures, typical of traditional industries, left employees feeling expendable. Some felt betrayed by the company, especially given Elon Musk’s seemingly capricious and vindictive behavior, enforced through the threat of legal action, given his immense wealth and influence.
The podcast also dives into the psychological aspects of the cult of personality surrounding Elon Musk and Tesla. While the brand’s passionate following is unparalleled, it often stems from sentiments that aren’t entirely positive. Despite facing backlash and criticism, the podcast remains committed to providing an honest analysis of the situation.
Tamara Warren’s experience covering the auto industry has led her to a less favorable opinion of Musk as a person. She acknowledges that the CEO’s actions have left people conflicted about owning a Tesla due to its association with him. Nevertheless, the series urges vigilance in monitoring Tesla’s situation, especially with regards to its role in managing the national charging network for EVs.
Ultimately, regardless of one’s stance on the company, Tesla’s influence and potential impact rival that of Big Oil. As the podcast emphasizes, one cannot underestimate Tesla’s significance, and its journey continues to unfold with far-reaching implications.
